How do I become a artist
Get qualified to work as a artist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Artist.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Artist generally earns $1,300 per week ($67,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
The number of people working as an Artist in Australia has increased steadily and there are now 11,000 people in this role. This number has increased from 8,700 five years ago. Artists may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
If you’d like to start a career as an Artist you could enrol in a Certificate I in Visual Arts. This qualification allows you to experiment with a range of different art forms including drawing, sculptures and metalwork. You could also consider a Certificate II in Design Fundamentals or a Certificate II in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers
10th November 2023
How to become a multimedia designer
4th November 2019All artist courses
Artist careers
An Artist uses their skills to create pieces for sale or for public viewing. You might specialise in a particular kind of artwork such as paintings and drawings or sculptures and 3D models. You may use traditional media or make use of specific items such as recycled materials. An Artist will usually come up with their own designs but you may be commissioned to produce a particular piece of work for a buyer. Artists often hold exhibitions of their work or display their pieces for purchase either online or at a gallery or public space.
Being an Artist requires creativity and imagination but you’ll also need skill and talent in your chosen artistic field. You’ll have to be able to collaborate with other artists or with people and organisations who are commissioning your work. It’s important that you can communicate and you should be able to manage several artistic projects at one time.
